Host Roshini Rajkumar invites you to a bespoke culinary experience. Will there be food? Ohhh yes. And…food for thought. James Beard award-winning Chef Gavin Kaysen shares his magical ingredients. Find out how a memorable mentor, perseverance, grit, and grace play into the menu. Gavin winds down 2026 doubling the size of his restaurant group, Soigne Hospitality, and continues to celebrate sous chefs who have worked for him and the several who went on to open their own restaurants. Learn about Gavin’s early days working for Chef Daniel Boulud and eventually becoming the trusted right-hand who opened Boulud restaurants all over the world. Until the day came for Gavin to hang his own chef’s hat in 2014 with his first restaurant, Spoon and Stable, in Minneapolis. Eventually, Gavin added Demi and Bellecour in the Twin Cities and, most recently in 2025, The Merchant Room in Naples, Florida. This episode is a master class in succession planning, crucial conversations, and authenticity for any stage of the dish of life. Whether you are a business owner, foodie, or leader who needs a dash of inspiration for your own team, we invite you to sit back, pour yourself a favorite glass, and savor this special conversation. Other brands by Chef Kaysen include: Bellecour Bakery and Cafe, Mara at Four Seasons Minneapolis, KZ Provisioning.

Host: Roshini Rajkumar

Guest: Chef Gavin Kaysen